Crispy Chicken Thigh Bites Recipe: Ultra Juicy with a Sweet & Spicy Glaze
These Crispy Chicken Thigh Bites are double-fried to perfection with a golden, crunchy exterior and juicy, tender inside. Inspired by Korean fried chicken, this recipe features a light batter and optional sweet & spicy glaze that will keep everyone reaching for more. Ideal for parties, quick dinners, or as a delicious snack. Kid-approved and perfect for any occasion!
Equipment
- Large mixing bowls
- Sharp knife & cutting board
- Medium to large frying pan or deep fryer
- Tongs or slotted spoon
- Small saucepan (for glaze)
- Whisk
- Air fryer or oven (for reheating leftovers)
Ingredients
- Main Ingredients Chicken Bites:
- 2.5 lb chicken thighs skin on, boneless recommended
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp rice wine optional, for extra tenderness
- 4 cloves garlic grated
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- For the Batter:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- 1 cup cold water
- Sweet & Spicy Glaze Optional but Recommended:
- 1.5 tbsp Korean red chili paste Gochujang
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
- Suggested Buttermilk Ranch Dipping Sauce:
- ¼ cup buttermilk
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 tsp dried dill
- ¾ cup Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup chopped chives or parsley
Instructions
- Step 1: Marinate the Chicken for Maximum Flavor
- Cut chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces.
- In a bowl, combine salt, pepper, soy sauce, rice wine (optional), and grated garlic.
- Massage the marinade into the chicken. Let it rest for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Step 2: Prepare the Light & Crispy Batter
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and cold water until smooth.
- The cold water helps keep the batter light and airy.
- Step 3: Coat and Fry to Golden Perfection
- Heat vegetable oil or olive oil in a frying pan or deep fryer over medium-high heat.
- Coat each marinated chicken piece thoroughly in the batter.
- Fry in small batches for 6–8 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- For extra crunch, double-fry each batch for an additional 1–2 minutes.
- Step 4: Glaze for Sweet & Spicy Perfection (Optional)
- In a separate small pan, combine Gochujang, honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic.
- Simmer over medium heat for about 1 minute until slightly thickened.
- Toss half (or all) of the fried chicken pieces in the glaze.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds for garnish.
- Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
- Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch, buffalo sauce, or chipotle aioli.
- Garnish with chopped chives, parsley, or cilantro for a fresh finish.
Notes
💡 Recipe Notes
- Make it Spicy: Add cayenne pepper to the batter or glaze for extra heat.
- Glaze-Free Option: Skip the glaze and sprinkle lemon zest and fresh herbs over the fried bites for a lighter version.
- Oil Choice: Vegetable, olive, or peanut oil all work well for frying—use what you prefer.
- Double Frying Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan; this ensures maximum crispiness.
⚡ Nutrition (Per Serving) (Approximate, without dipping sauce or glaze)
Calories: 214 kcal | Protein: 24g | Fat: 9g | Carbs: 12gNutrition may vary based on portion size and optional ingredients used.